Whether you're looking for a nearby cafe, need to know when the next bus or train will come, or want a fuss-free family day out, there's an app to help...

ForestXplorer - free

Yelp - Free

Looking for a cafe that's open now - with a loo to nip into? Desperate for a petrol station before you run out? Use this app to search for places to eat, shop, or relax. You can also read reviews from an active community of locals in the know. Great news too, it's free!

GoBaby - £1.49

Currently only for London, this app was developed by a mum. It tells you which stations on the underground have steps, essential if you are taking a buggy. You can also find out where there are changing facilites and child friendly restaurants. A smart buy if you are visiting the capital.

Live Train Times - £2.99

Don't ever let a late train spoil a family day out again. This highly-rated live train times app allows you to find out when your next train is, so you can spend your maximum amount time with the family having fun, before hot footing it to the train station.

Viator Tours & Activities - Free

Another award winning travel app. Not only will this app give you lots of local information about where you are visiting, but it will also give you e-vouchers and local reviews. You can even book activities from your phone. Pretty good value we think.

Touchnote - Free

A genius idea from Touchnote. Send your family and friends real postcards using your iPhone photos, printed and then posted for you. A holiday isn't a holiday without the good old fashioned postcard! Right?

BBC Weather - free

This easy-to-read BBC Weather app will give you short term and longer range forecasts, meaning you can plan for a an hour in the park or a day trip later in the week. This could become your very best friend!

Bus Checker UK - £2.49

Planes, trains and automobiles....nearly! The bus might be the most direct or thrifty option when out and about. No studying the timetable at the bus stop and learning you just missed the last bus! Plan ahead from home and save time. It includes live and scheduled bus times.